Perfect World Enters into Publishing Agreement with Runic Games announces Torchlight, an action MMORPG in the works at Runic Games, one of the developers that formed from the ashes of Flagship Studios by Travis Baldree and Max Schaefer of Flagship's ill-fated Mythos. Here's word on the game, which will attempt to bridge the gap between eastern and western tastes in gaming:

BEIJING, April 22 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Perfect World Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: PWRD) ("Perfect World" or the "Company"), a leading online game developer and operator in China, today announced that it has entered into a publishing agreement with Runic Games, Inc. ("Runic Games"), a specialized developer of PC-based entertainment software in the United States, for the exclusive rights and license to publish "Torchlight," an action-packed massively multiplayer online role-playing game ("Action-MMORPG") that's being developed, throughout the world.

Being developed by Runic Games' experienced team of industry veterans, "Torchlight" is an adventure-themed Action-MMORPG. Adventurers set out from the town of Torchlight into the nearby mountains in search of the magic ore that imbues their equipment with power, yet imperils their very existence. "Torchlight" emphasizes a simple and intuitive interface, fast and furious action, and a colorful and compelling game world.

Mr. Max Schaefer, Chief Executive Officer of Runic Games, said, "Runic Games is very pleased to partner with Perfect World. Perfect World's strength and expertise in creating and running MMORPGs and track record of high quality of service to the playing community give us great confidence and hopes for a long and prosperous partnership. With 'Torchlight,' we strive to bring the best of Western and Eastern gaming together, creating a truly global title."

Mr. Michael Chi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Perfect World commented, "We are very pleased to cooperate with Runic Games, whose members have a first-rate track record. Leveraging Perfect World's marketing capabilities and deep understanding of Asian culture and player preferences, 'Torchlight' is expected to be a 'global title,' catering to the tastes of both Western and Eastern players. In addition to our involvement in game development leveraging our extensive experience with MMORPG, we will also strive to demonstrate our excellent game operating ability and to offer players unique and exciting online game experience. We treasure this opportunity to work with the professional team of Runic Games, and look forward to the success of 'Torchlight,' as a cornerstone for the long-term strategic relationship between Runic Games and Perfect World."